Did you know you could make your own natural mascara? Yes, you really can! If you do not want to buy a natural mascara already made for you and want to try your hand at making it, give it a go. Let me know how you like it!

Ingredients
- 1/4 teaspoon black mineral powder
- 1/4 teaspoon bentonite clay
- 1/8 teaspoon (about 4 drops) vegetable glycerine
- 1/4 teaspoon (plus more if needed) aloe vera gel
- 1 to 2 drops lavender essential oil (optional, see safety tips below)
How to put it all together
- Mix all ingredients in a very small bowl until completely smooth.
- Add more aloe vera gel if needed to get a smooth consistency.
- Carefully use a medicine dropper and slowly squirt into the mascara container (or jar)
- Alternately, you can add the ingredients directly to the tube and mix with the mascara brush, though it takes a while of mixing to get the ingredients smooth inside the tube.
- Use as you would normally.
To remove
Use a washcloth with warm water or use coconut oil as a natural eye makeup remover.
BONUS TIP
Dust lashes with arrowroot powder or organic cornstarch first to thicken and lengthen even more. This works with a lash curler, but I’ve found it is better to curl first so they don’t clump.
Tips for the Best Results
- Find your consistency. If it is too thick and clumpy, add a tiny bit more aloe. If it is too runny, add a pinch more clay or mineral powder.
- Build in thin layers. Apply one coat, let it dry for a minute, then add another for more volume.
- Brown instead of black. Swap in brown mineral powder or a little cocoa powder for a softer, more natural look, great for blondes.
- Store it right. Keep the tube tightly closed in a cool place, and keep extra in the fridge.
- Waterproof it is not. This natural mascara can smudge with tears or rain, so it is best for everyday wear, not for weddings or the pool.
Making your own natural mascara is a fun little project, and it is so satisfying to know exactly what you are putting near your eyes. Give it a try, have fun experimenting, and let me know how you like it! Your lashes will thank you.
Natural Mascara Safety Tips
Your eyes are sensitive, so please be careful with homemade eye makeup:
- Make small batches. Homemade mascara has no preservatives, and the aloe makes it a place where bacteria can grow. Toss it after 2 to 3 weeks, or sooner if it smells or looks different.
- Keep it clean. Sterilize your mascara tube and wand before filling, and never share eye makeup.
- Go easy on essential oils. Oils can sting and irritate the eyes. Use only a drop or two, or leave them out completely.
- Choose clean clay. Some clays can contain lead, so buy a brand that tests for purity.
- Stop right away if your eyes get red, itchy, watery or swollen, and see a doctor if irritation does not go away.
Why Switch to a Natural Mascara?
Many conventional mascaras contain synthetic preservatives, petroleum-based ingredients and other chemicals we may not want so close to our eyes every day. A natural mascara made from minerals, clay and plant ingredients is a simple swap. If making your own is not for you, look for a clean store-bought natural mascara instead. For more natural makeup, see my natural blush and homemade bronzer recipes.
SHOP Mascara
- Black Mineral Powder
- Bentonite Clay
- Vegetable Glycerine
- Aloe Vera Gel
- Lavender
- Medicine Dropper
- Mascara Container
